Rhode Island braces for storm bringing snow, cold

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- The snow has begun to fall in Rhode Island, and forecasters are warning a winter storm could bring 6 to 10 inches to the state.

The National Weather Service says the light snow is expected to turn into a moderate or heavy snowfall Thursday evening and continue into Friday morning. The weather service is also warning of dangerously low wind chills.

Across the state, many communities have declared parking bans in anticipation of heavy snow. Some schools were closing early, and in Portsmouth, schools were closed altogether on Thursday and Friday. Block Island ferry service is cancelled Thursday.

Gov. Lincoln Chafee urged residents to take precautions for the bitterly cold temperatures and dress properly if going outside